Sacraments

Anointing of the Sick

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick

Many of us remember the days when one received the Sacrament of Anointing only once, thus the term “Last Rites.” The Church’s teaching regarding the Sacrament of Anointing has developed over time and, today, the Sacrament of the Anointing the Sick may be received more than once, and for several reasons. Often someone facing a serious surgery will request the Anointing of the Sick. Some may request the Anointing of the Sick when dealing with a difficult diagnosis or when their illness has progressed and treatment options change.

The Lord himself showed great concern for the bodily and spiritual welfare of the sick and commanded his followers to do likewise. TheSacrament of the Anointing the Sick is intended for those who are seriously ill or elderly and in need of special help of God’s grace in a time of anxiety. The sacrament is an act of faith; the faith of the recipient who welcomes and believes the healing power of God, and the faith of the church, which looks to Christ’s death and resurrection as the source of this healing power. While we believe that physical healing is a sign of God’s kingdom, we remember that spiritual healing and physical cure are not synonymous—we may be healed by God’s grace in the absence of a physical cure.

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick at Transfiguration

There are two opportunities for celebrating the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick at Transfiguration:

Join us for 8:00 a.m. Mass on the first Saturday of each month to celebrate the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. Check the Bulletin or Parish Calendar for specific dates.